The Strengths To Look For In Players For When Coaching Junior Soccer Each position on the soccer field requires certain basic abilities and physical attributes. In saying that, you will come across some who do not naturally fit the profile but still go on perform well in a position that, on paper, isn't meant for them. So try not to pre-judge a child when selecting a position for them, just wait and see how they do. Goalkeeper Goalkeepers have to be able to defend a large area to stop the ball entering the goal. Unlike any other player on the pitch they can use their hands to control the ball anywhere within the penalty area. This position is ideally suited to a taller than average child who has quick reactions, is agile and courageous. They need to be competent at catching and throwing the ball as well as having a strong kick. Remember that although height is an advantage an agile brave but shorter keeper may perform better than someone who is just tall.
Fullbacks A fullback’s primary objective is to stop attacks coming from wide areas of the pitch. Because they are mainly up against quick opposition players fullbacks tend to possess good speed. They need to be good tacklers with a strong kick to clear the ball away from danger when necessary. The ability to pass the ball is useful but passes are generally only short, usually to midfielders.
Centerbacks Centerbacks patrol around their own penalty area and work to stop attackers having an opportunity to score a goal. Because of the threat of balls being kicked into the penalty area in the air, centerbacks tend to be taller and are not afraid of heading the ball. Like fullbacks they need to be good at tackling, a strong kick and the ability to perform short passes. You will rarely play with only one centerback so ideally at least one of the centerbacks should be a quick runner to cope with fast attackers.
Defensive midfielder A defensive midfielder sits in front of the defense has the task of slowing or breaking up opposition attacks. The position requires a lot of stamina, as there a great deal of running involved, the ability to tackle and pass accurately. This can be one of the most important roles in the team.
Attacking midfield This position requires ability to support both defense and attack. Precision passing and keeping the ball are important skills that the position requires. A good attacking midfielder will also have a strong shot as they will be supporting the forwards attempts to score. Again stamina is required to cover large areas of the pitch. A good attacking midfielder will be confident with the ball at their feet. Midfield is the engine room of a team and you cannot afford to have lazy players in any midfield position.
Winger A winger, sometimes called a 'wide man', operates near the touchline. Pace, the ability to dribble and pass the ball accurately is the sign of a good winger. A winger has an important part to play in a soccer game. They will be looking to cross the ball in from wide positions for the attackers to score goals, so a strong kick is useful. A good shot is valuable as they can move in from the wing to shoot at goal.
Striker The striker's main aims are to score or to assist in scoring a goal. So the ability to shoot accurately, preferably at pace, is paramount. Strikers tend to be quick but only in short bursts; a quick forward is particularly useful as they looking to move forward at speed and receive the ball in dangerous attacking positions. They also have to be patient as the opportunities to receive the ball tend to be few. A tall forward is helpful as they have a better chance of heading high balls from the wings or corners. Ideally you want forward players to form a rapport and work together to create chances. In saying that, a good goal scorer may be selfish as they are always looking for the chance to score.
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